Pre-teen brother and sister, abandoned by their father to be taken care of by an abusive prostitute aunt, survive life in an Indian squatters' camp, aided by a friendly cripple, by learning ... Read allPre-teen brother and sister, abandoned by their father to be taken care of by an abusive prostitute aunt, survive life in an Indian squatters' camp, aided by a friendly cripple, by learning to shine shoes instead of begging.Pre-teen brother and sister, abandoned by their father to be taken care of by an abusive prostitute aunt, survive life in an Indian squatters' camp, aided by a friendly cripple, by learning to shine shoes instead of begging.
- Awards
- 4 wins & 1 nomination total
Kumari Naaz
- Belu
- (as Baby Naaz)
Ratan Kumar
- Bhola
- (as Rattan Kumar)
David Abraham
- John
- (as David)
Chand Burke
- Kamla Devi
- (as Chand Burque)
Bhudo Advani
- Pedro
- (as Budho Advani)
Raj Kapoor
- Man asleep on train
- (uncredited)
Featured reviews
This film ranks as one of the finest thought provoking social dramas asking how we look at ourselves given the limited resources and choices and faced with overwhelming odds. Raj Kapoor's presentation of the humble lifestyle of two children who wish to overcome the obstacles of abject poverty shows the importance of the spirit of endurance and dedication in the face of adversity. We can learn from children when they try to face challenges in the world created by greedy souls.
I would recommend this film as a lesson in the triumph of the human spirit when facing the evils of man made adversity. We probably can relate to the two youn protaganists of the film in our everyday lives. Life can be a bitch, and films such as BOOT POLISH show the more dramatic encounters of what we call the human struggle.
I would recommend this film as a lesson in the triumph of the human spirit when facing the evils of man made adversity. We probably can relate to the two youn protaganists of the film in our everyday lives. Life can be a bitch, and films such as BOOT POLISH show the more dramatic encounters of what we call the human struggle.
What worked:
- the sublime message of the movie advocates for hard work, hope and perseverance. Relevant to it's time, the movie takes into consideration the child psychology, and narrates the raw, gritty and sad truth of its time. I think it is okay to say that the many movies of that generation talks about The socioeconomic disparity between the haves and havenots.
- culturally irrelevant; though the movie has its strong influence of that time, it's irrelevant and not relatable. Of course, there is poverty, discrimination and sadistic reality in today's society, maybe today's filmmaker will definitely use this movie's main agenda as a sublayer of a main plot instead of keeping it the main agenda.
Boot polish is a masterpiece in Indian cinema.The movie is well scripted with powerful performances by baby Naaz and Ratan Kumar.Baby Naaz steals your heart through her fantastic performance and also through her dialogue delivery. Boot polish is a masterpiece because the theme of the movie is relevant even today.The writing is exceptional which makes this movie a masterpiece.Even the songs are exceptionally wonderful.boot polish will remain as a masterpiece in Indian cinema for the unique performance of baby Naaz.The dialogues are heart touching.David Abraham gives a memorable performance as uncle john.Shankar Jaikishan music is excellent with fantastic songs.A masterpiece that requires high Honour forever in the Indian cinema.A masterpiece with an fine social melodrama.A must see for every Indian.
All I want to say that every person living in this world should watch this Indian movie.Especially Who are Afraid ,Coward and thinking about themselves that they are of no use in this world, in their life.Whoever is Hating Himself must watch it. As I watched this movie for first time I broke into tears .I am a teenager Guy Though.I can't explain how beautifully every thing is Explained In this movie that gives you a Strong Determination & Inspiration to not lose hope and have self respect. Finally i wanna request you that for god's sake go for this movie at least once if you have true compassion within you.Hat.s off for the respective director including his cast and crew.
Boot Polish" is a classic Indian film released in 1954, directed by Prakash Arora and produced by Raj Kapoor. It is a heartwarming tale that showcases the struggles of two young siblings and their journey towards survival and self-reliance. Set in the backdrop of post-independence India, the film tackles the themes of poverty, social inequality, and the importance of perseverance.
The story revolves around two siblings, Bhola and Belu, who are left orphaned and forced to live on the streets of Mumbai. They are desperately poor and resort to begging for a living. One day, they come across a bootlegger, John Chacha, who gives them the opportunity to earn money by polishing shoes. The siblings embark on this new venture, and with hard work and dedication, they gradually improve their circumstances.
"Boot Polish" is a touching portrayal of the harsh realities faced by children in impoverished conditions. The film beautifully captures the innocence and resilience of Bhola and Belu, who are played by Ratan Kumar and Baby Naaz, respectively. Their performances are remarkable, evoking both sympathy and admiration from the audience.
The film also emphasizes the importance of education and how it can break the cycle of poverty. Bhola and Belu's encounter with a kind-hearted school teacher, played by David Abraham, provides a glimmer of hope and inspires them to strive for a better future.
One of the film's strengths lies in its ability to blend social commentary with moments of humor and joy. The song sequences, especially the popular track "Nanhe Munne Bachche," add a lively and entertaining element to the narrative.
"Boot Polish" was well-received by audiences and critics alike upon its release. It won the Filmfare Award for Best Film and Best Director, and the child actors received special mention for their exceptional performances. The film's success can be attributed to its sincere storytelling, memorable characters, and its poignant exploration of social issues.
Overall, "Boot Polish" is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with viewers even after several decades. It serves as a reminder of the power of hope, determination, and the indomitable spirit of children in the face of adversity. If you appreciate thought-provoking cinema with a social message, "Boot Polish" is definitely worth watching.
The story revolves around two siblings, Bhola and Belu, who are left orphaned and forced to live on the streets of Mumbai. They are desperately poor and resort to begging for a living. One day, they come across a bootlegger, John Chacha, who gives them the opportunity to earn money by polishing shoes. The siblings embark on this new venture, and with hard work and dedication, they gradually improve their circumstances.
"Boot Polish" is a touching portrayal of the harsh realities faced by children in impoverished conditions. The film beautifully captures the innocence and resilience of Bhola and Belu, who are played by Ratan Kumar and Baby Naaz, respectively. Their performances are remarkable, evoking both sympathy and admiration from the audience.
The film also emphasizes the importance of education and how it can break the cycle of poverty. Bhola and Belu's encounter with a kind-hearted school teacher, played by David Abraham, provides a glimmer of hope and inspires them to strive for a better future.
One of the film's strengths lies in its ability to blend social commentary with moments of humor and joy. The song sequences, especially the popular track "Nanhe Munne Bachche," add a lively and entertaining element to the narrative.
"Boot Polish" was well-received by audiences and critics alike upon its release. It won the Filmfare Award for Best Film and Best Director, and the child actors received special mention for their exceptional performances. The film's success can be attributed to its sincere storytelling, memorable characters, and its poignant exploration of social issues.
Overall, "Boot Polish" is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with viewers even after several decades. It serves as a reminder of the power of hope, determination, and the indomitable spirit of children in the face of adversity. If you appreciate thought-provoking cinema with a social message, "Boot Polish" is definitely worth watching.
Did you know
- TriviaThis movie is a remake of Italian movie "Shoeshine". But Raj Kapoor shaab made it in Indian style.
- ConnectionsRemade as Morad o Laleh (1966)
- SoundtracksRaat Gayi
Music by Shankarsingh Raghuwanshi & Jaikishan Dayabhai Panchal
- How long is Boot Polish?Powered by Alexa
Details
- Runtime2 hours 29 minutes
- Color
- Aspect ratio
- 1.37 : 1
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